pass time
While away moments
To pass time is to occupy oneself during a period of waiting or idleness: We passed the time playing cards until our flight boarded.
The phrase suggests filling time rather than using it productively.
Often confused with the noun pastime, which is a hobby or recreational activity—something you do to pass time.
- volunteeringGiving service without pay
- napBrief daytime rest
- bookBound written work
- while awayPass time idly
- knittingLoop-based textile making
idle · game · dawdle · beguile · reading · gardening · dancing · stargazing · take a stroll · storytelling · daydreaming · birdwatching · chess · leisure · people watching · chatting · sketching · doodle
purposefulness
pass timelabor
Strenuous effort; also childbirth
accomplish · get things done · achieve · apply oneself · buckle down
time, pass, passing, times, passed, timeless, pastime, bedtime, timed